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Leave the cold behind and head south for an unforgettable winter getaway. Dive with the Florida Manatee of Crystal River!
During the winter months, Manatee swim into the warm fresh water springs to feed and escape the chilly coastal waters. A refuge has been established to provide protection from boats and humans. The Manatee are an edangered species and are protected by federal law. We will dive near the sanctuary and have the opportunity to observe them as they move to and from the protected area.
We also plan to dive nearby Ginnie Springs, Troy Springs State Park, and make a drift dive down Rainbow River, one of the most scenic freshwater dives in the world! We will be conducting Open Water certification dives on the first two days of the trip so it's a great time to complete your training
Trip Itinerary
Feb 16 (Thu) - Drive to Alachua, Florida and check into the motel that evening. From Chattanooga, the drive is about 6 hours so you can even leave after work.
Feb 17 (Fri) - Depart the hotel at 7:00 AM and travel to Ginnie Springs where we will make three or more dives before driving to Crystal River. We will spend the evening at the Port Hotel which is on the water, only 200 yards from the Manatee sanctuary.
Feb 18 (Sat) - Board our boat at 9:00 AM at the hotel marina. We plan to make two dives at the sanctuary before returning to the dock for lunch and air fills. We will then motor to "3 Sisters" for two snorkel dives in the afternoon. We will return to the Port Hotel for a group dinner and relaxing evening by the water.
Feb 19 (Sun) - We will depart the hotel at 7:00 AM and drive to the Rainbow Springs park. We will be picked and transported by boat to the head of the spring. After making our entry, we will make a leisurely two-hour drift dive/snorkel back to the parking area. From there, we depart for home.
Note: If you are a certified diver you may join the group on either Wednesday or Thursday evening and the cost of your trip will be adjusted accordingly. The itinerary is typical and may change due to weather, safety or other logistical requirements.
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